Everton manager Ronald Koeman praised the midfielder’s contribution to an “outstanding team performance” as the Toffees posted a record-equalling seventh straight home win on the bounce against Leicester yesterday.

But he left Barkley in no doubt that he will not be able to run down the remainder of a current deal which runs out at the end of next season’s campaign.

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Ross Barkley has been told to make up his mind over his Everton contract

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Ronald Koeman will not let Barkley run down his contract to 2018

“We offer him a new contract and then there are two possibilities: one is sign that contract and if he doesn’t sign the contract we need to sell the player,” said Koeman.

“It is simple, not so difficult in my opinion.”

Barkley produced one of his best performances this season against Leicester and Koeman is keen to retain both him and Romelu Lukaku.